XERVON Plamers Awarded Glasgow Hotel Construction Project

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XERVON Plamers Awarded Glasgow Hotel Construction Project

Palmers has secured a significant contract from Ogilvie Construction for the Motel One Hotel construction project in Glasgow.

XERVON PalmersXERVON Palmers will be utilising Layher Scaffold System to provide the access to facilitate the construction of the 374 bedroom hotel.

XERVON Palmers MD, Donald Morrison said: “We are pleased to confirm that we have been appointed by Ogilvie to provide access scaffolding at their Motel One Hotel construction project in Glasgow. Congratulations to the team for securing this contract… which will contribute to the planned restart of the Palmers Glasgow branch.”

The Motel One hotel contract for Ogilvie has an overall value of £22M & is located next to the Glasgow Central Railway Station.

Family owned Ogilvie Construction is one of Scotland’s largest privately owned construction companies.

AIF Conference Set to Shape the Height Safety Agenda

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AIF Conference Set to Shape the Height Safety Agenda

IMG_0569The Access Industry Forum (AIF), the forum for eleven of the leading trade associations and federations involved in work at height, has confirmed the speaker lineup for its first national, one-day conference: Implementing change and innovation in work at height.

The conference will take place at the Holywell Park Conference Centre at Loughborough University on 13 October 2016.

Dedicated exclusively to height safety, the Forum has assembled an impressive line up of expert speakers from industry, academia and the professions. They will address the issues and topics, trends and developments set to shape the work at height agenda over the coming months and years. In total, ten presenters will cover a wide range of topics from drones to designing for access.

Speakers include Philip White, head of operational policy and strategy at the Health and Safety Executive; Steffan Groch, chair of the Health and Safety Lawyers’ Association; Paul Bussey, chairman of the  Designers’ Initiative on Health and Safety; Prof Tim Marsh, chairman of RyderMarshSharman; and Dylan Roberts, director of health, safety and wellbeing at Skanska UK.

Also speaking will be Dr Shaun Lundy of the University of Greenwich – a member of the HSE’s Myth Busters Challenge Panel – who will talk about the myths and misconceptions surrounding work at height, and John Dunne, group health, safety, environment and quality director at the Wates Group who will discuss his company’s We’re safer together initiative.

According to the Forum, this will be the first conference to focus entirely on the future of work at height and promises to be a landmark event in the evolution of height safety. It will examine the key issues facing professionals today in this critical area of health and safety.

More information about the conference please vist: www.accessindustryforum.org.uk/event/2016-aif-conference-latest/

First Ever CISRS Scaffolding Training Commences in Nepal

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First Ever CISRS Scaffolding Training Commences in Nepal

Safety & Access have announced the commencement this week of the very first CISRS scaffolding training ever to take place in Nepal.

Nepalese scaffolders are renowned throughout the world for their hard work and commitment to learning. This week the first group of trainees attended our centre in the heart of Kathmandu to commence CISRS training and learn new skills to take to the Gulf with them and to increase efficiency and safety in their workplace.

CISRS qualifications are very important to the Nepalese people as these provide independently accredited qualifications recognised by clients throughout the Middle East and thus increase job prospects.

nepal-quake-map-data

As you may be aware just over a year ago Nepal was devastated by an earthquake that left almost 10’000 people dead. This has had a major effect on the economy. It is envisaged that the availability of CISRS training within Nepal will assist the scaffolders there with improved job prospects abroad to ensure that their families are provided for and that on some levels lives can be enhanced.

The training precedes an intensive four week marketing campaign to promote the centre and CISRS qualifications within UAE, Qatar and Saudi where interest in the training at source in Kathmandu is increasing.

A full report on the CISRS training and benefits to the Nepalese people will follow from ScaffMag in due course.

New NASC Guidance on Use of Readylok Transoms

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New NASC Guidance on Use of Readylok Transoms

NASC provide data guidance on the use of Readylok Transoms in July’s TG20:13 update.

Structural testing and research by the NASC and Generation UK Ltd now remove any confusion on how Readylok Transoms can be used.

The NASC have not yet publicly announced the July 2016 update to the structural requirements and testing regime of prefabricated transom units. But this new revision now shows Readylok prefabricated transom units can be used to replace structural transoms and reduce the need for ledger braces.

Download: Structural requirements and test procedures for TG20 compliant prefabricated structural transom units

Many scaffolders value and benefit from the fast erection times, reduction in components and costs delivered through Readylok. But since their introduction, over twenty years ago, there has been limited test data to confirm whether their use permits the removal of ledger braces.

image00In partnership with the NASC, Generation UK have undertaken the necessary research to define the performance criteria of the Readylok Transom, to comply with the TG20:13 guidance.  The research used the Generation Readylok as its test product to enable the NASC to update previous inconclusive data.   

The NASC have now provided an update to the structural requirements and testing regime for the Readyloks to be compliant with the calculations used in TG20:13. This means that scaffolders can provide evidence about the suitability of the use of Readylok Transoms to remove ledger braces and reduce components, assembly costs and improve erection times.

Generation UK, managing director said about the NASC update to TG20:13 “We are proud to work together with the NASC to provide scaffolders with the necessary certificates of conformity and the confidence to use Readyloks to systemise tube and fittings. This is one part of our programme to continually improve the products and services we provide.”

Strike to Hit Shells North Sea Platforms

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Strike to Hit Shells North Sea Platforms

North Sea oil and gas workers are to strike for the first time in a generation.

Almost 400 members of Unite and RMT unions working for Wood Group across eight Shell oil and gas platforms in the North Sea are set to take the action in a dispute over 30% pay cuts and changes to allowances. The first 24-hour stoppage will take place Tuesday, July 26 which will then be followed by a series of other stoppages over the following weeks. This follows a 99.1% vote in favour of strike action by Unite members, and a 98.5% vote by RMT members. It is expected the strike action, the first since the 1990s, will severely disrupt operations on the Shell platforms based in the North Sea’s Brent and Central oil and gas fields. Union members are angry over Wood Group’s proposal to cut pay and allowances by up to 30%. Recent changes have also seen workers move from a two-week working cycle to a three-week working cycle, which means working extra weeks offshore for the same salary. Speaking to Offshore Post Wood Group’s CEO, Dave Stewart said: “Our firm focus remains on reaching a resolution, which meets our mutual goal of sustaining these jobs for our employees in the North Sea now and in the future, against the backdrop of an extremely challenging climate created by the sustained low oil price,” According to a statement by the RMT and Unite unions, the strike action will be taken across Shell assets in the Brent field at the following platforms: Shearwater, Gannet, Nelson, Curlew, Brent Alpha, Brent Bravo and Brent Charlie.

Review: Apache Heavy Duty Work Trousers

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Review: Apache Heavy Duty Work Trousers

A good quality no-nonsense trouser at a low price – ‘what more would you want’ ?

Welcome to another installment of our reviews. Over the last month we have been reviewing a series of workwear products all supplied by the guys at the Leeds based Active Workwear.

Apache Heavy Duty Work Trouserapache trouser

The UK based brand of workwear products never seems to disappoint on quality and these trousers are no different. If your looking to spend a small amount of your hard earnt cash on work clobber look no further.

Among many features, the heavy duty, low rise waist trousers benefits from a reinforced crotch, triple stitched inside leg seams, Cordura covered knee pad holders and a diverse range of velcro utility pockets. Notably the trousers also include a convenient Phone pocket designed to hold larger modern phones.

Other features:

  • Two tuck away holster pockets with Cordura
  • Reflective piping to rear of hem
  • Cordura reinforced hem
  • 280g Poly Cotton
  • Machine washable

Wearability

The trousers were very comfortable and stylish to wear, however they did feel a little heavy until I was used to them.

Available in Black, Grey/Black & Stone

Price £29.99 Incl VAT @ www.active-workwear.co.uk

Scaffolding Finance for the 21st Century

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Scaffolding Finance for the 21st Century

Independent Unbiased Third Party Finance Leaving Your Bank Line Free for Emergencies.

mcf Minaur Corporate Finance, (MCF) have worked with a wide range of scaffolding and construction companies arranging all types of facilities to fund their businesses. Twenty five years ago Paul Minaur financed his first “Hire to Sale” scaffolding transaction. When it became clear how much was being charged to hire equipment, coupled with the additional costs and complications of playing for “lost items” when returned, it was immediately obvious that there was a huge unsupported demand for finance in the Scaffolding Market. Our initial scaffolding client is now a multimillion pound concern. Many lenders do not finance scaffolding, except for the strongest credits, but MCF does!  We achieve this via a range of lenders who offer Leasing, Hire Purchase and Unsecured Commercial Loans for both Scaffolding and Accessories.  Some of our lenders only accept scaffolding business from MCF as they know we have a history in this market and for many years have had strong relationships with suppliers in the UK. Every Company is unique, so one solution does not fit all. From one source you can access MCF’s multiple lenders and funding options. With years of experience we can match each requirement to the most appropriate lender. We Have Financed: Traditional Tube , Fittings & Boards, Systems including Layher, Haki, Cuplock, NOR48, Accessories such as Brick Guards, Netting, Chutes and Skips. As well as Supplier Invoiced New Transactions, we arrange Refinancing of Assets already owned to raise Capital to make further purchases. We have arranged facilities for clients purchasing second hand stock from companies which are ceasing to trade. Suppliers introduce clients to us when there is a requirement which they cannot satisfy with their in-house extended credit terms (if they offer them).  A typical client will have an amount of stock which is hired already and they need more. MCF can arrange finance to cover the transfer of hire to sale or the cost of the new equipment to be purchased. This frees up the “Hire Account” so the supplier can provide additional stock when required. Historically, MCF has even secured facilities with underwriting being based on the Scrap value of Steel. Minimum deal size is £5,000.00 with no upper limit. The typical size requirement is between £50,000 and £150,000. The largest single facility we have provided for scaffolding to date is £750,000. The majority of our clients use a Full Payout Finance Lease as all the payments are tax deductable and title to the goods can be easily arranged.  (Lenders want a return on the money, not a pile of second hand scaffolding).  Unsecured business loans give clients the money to use as “Cash buyers” to negotiate terms with suppliers (or tarmac their Yard!). We can arrange facilities up to £50,000 for single tenant Director Companies with at least 2 years accounts. As well as scaffolding we also finance, Portacabins, Cars, Vans LCV & HGVs including Hook & Cable Lift Vehicles and Beds, JCBs, Telehandlers, Forklifts and Powered Access Equipment.  CCTV, Security Fencing and Shipping Containers. In short if your business has a finance requirement, MCF will know the lender and how to make it happen.  Whether a sizable requirement for an established business or a more modest value for a young or start-up situation we have the Funders to assist. For an initial No Obligation Consultation call us on:01600 860 013 or email [email protected]   http://www.m-c-f-ltd.co.uk/scaffolding-finance.html

New fleet of trucks for TRAD Hire and Sales

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New fleet of trucks for TRAD Hire and Sales

TRAD Hire and Sales recently took delivery of a new commercial fleet of Scania P320 trucks.

tradtruck2Fitted with Euro 6 compliant engines, these modern trucks are designed to help protect the environment and lower the company’s carbon footprint through greater fuel efficiency. The fleet is also making TRAD greener and cleaner by lowering levels of harmful exhaust emissions. 

Putting safety first

The trucks have numerous safety features to protect both employees and the general public. For example, the ‘fall prevention system’ fitted around the truck beds prevent people falling from height. Plus, there’s the top of the range four-camera safety system. Mounted in the cab, this system helps protect pedestrians and cyclists by reducing blind spots in the driver’s field of vision. There are also sensors along both sides of the lorry and audible warnings when the truck indicates left.

tradtruck3Another handy safety feature is the remote-controlled FASSI crane. This gives the operator full visual control of every aspect of the lifting process from anywhere around the truck, increasing visibility and helping create a much safer working environment.

TRAD Hire & Sales is dedicated to driver and vehicle safety. They are FORS Bronze accredited, and are committed  to achieve FORS Silver early next year.

Raising awareness

Added to all this is the new distinctive paintwork livery and visuals, featuring striking graphics and ground-breaking ‘chrome’ film. Not only will this help the trucks stand out and promote TRAD Hire & Sales, but it will also increase awareness of it’s product range including the innovative Plettac METRIX scaffolding system.

tradtruck

About TRAD Hire & Sales

TRAD Hire & Sales is the UK market leader in scaffold supplies; with Plettac METRIX and the ALTRIX Temporary Roofing System being the newest additions to their extensive product range, which also includes traditional scaffolding tube, fittings and boards, TradLok, Tradstage and Trad Stair Tower.

For further information on service and products please call 0845 899 0845 and speak to one of our nationwide Sales Team.

BREAKING: CISRS Release Statement on CPD

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BREAKING: CISRS Release Statement on CPD

CISRS has today released a statement in response to the reaction the industry has felt over impending mandatory CPD course.

CISRS have also announced the creation of a webpage to help dispel myths and misinformation surrounding the course

The Statement

There has been quite a reaction on social media since it was announced that CPD courses for Scaffolders will be introduced from summer 2017. CISRS has now set up specific CPD page on it’s website in a response to some of misinformation being circulated around the sector. The aim of the webpage is to provide background information surrounding the introduction of the new scheme, why CISRS has concluded that CPD is necessary, proposed course content whilst also answering some of the questions that have been raised by concerned scaffolders and employers. The Industry has had a mixed response to the announcement however there are many across the wider industry who have welcomed the idea. Graham Wren Chief Executive Construction Skills Certification Scheme said: “Following the publication of the Industrial Strategy for Construction in 2013, the construction industry has refocused its efforts on ensuring the workforce is appropriately qualified. Continuous professional development (CPD) is an effective method of ensuring all construction workers keep up to date with the latest developments and processes. CSCS welcomes the introduction of CPD as part of the renewal process for a CISRS card, further reinforcing the highly skilled reputation of UK scaffolders.” Much of the initial opposition to the introduction of CPD appears to be cost and who will pay for the course, rather than the principle of CPD itself. CISRS are currently in discussions with CITB to see if any additional funding can be sourced to help offset the costs of the CPD programme. CPD for Scaffolders has not been driven by Training Providers and cannot be described as a “Knee Jerk” reaction. It is an agenda that has been pushed by wider industry for many years, particularly the HSE in the case of scaffolding. CISRS and ASITO have been convinced it is the right thing to do for our safety critical sector. Ray Cooke Head of Construction Sector Safety Unit Health & Safety Executive said: “‘HSE Inspectors sometimes come across scaffolders on site who are not up to date on current accepted practices with respect to safe erection and dismantling of scaffolding. This is an issue that is easily resolved through CPD and HSE welcomes the introduction of this into the CISRS scheme. This brings the scheme into line with many other construction trades and it will have a very positive effect, particularly for those who may not have received any formal training in many years. It should help employers demonstrate that their operatives have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience to fulfil their duties under the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015.” CISRS understands that there will always be a reaction to changes within a sector, but is hoping to dispel some of the myths that have emerged in recent weeks. The web page will be updated regularly and a Frequently Asked Questions section is currently being put together. Link to webpage http://cisrs.org.uk/cpd-2017/ 

Bilfinger Salamis awarded major North Sea contract

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Bilfinger Salamis awarded major North Sea contract

Bilfinger Salamis UK has secured over 200 offshore jobs after being awarded a multimillion pound contract with Repsol Sinopec Resources UK.

The contract award sees Bilfinger Salamis provide a full range of fabric maintenance, scaffolding and access services to Repsol Sinopec Resources UK’s Piper, Claymore, Tartan, Clyde and Bleo Holm offshore operated assets, as well as the terminal at Flotta.
The initial award is for period of two years, with options to extend for a further four years, and secures employment for over 200 Bilfinger operatives. The announcement follows Repsol Sinopec Resources UK’s move to an asset focused organisational structure, and is one of a number of major new service contracts awarded which aim to underpin the company’s long-term transformation. This includes focusing on rationalising and investing in the long-term integrity of its asset portfolio.
Bilfinger Salamis UK chief operating officer Sandy Bonner said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract which will allow us to support Repsol Sinopec Resources in their offshore operations in the North Sea. “Securing this long-term contract with Repsol Sinopec Resources UK was a major strategic target for us. Adding a further six large assets to our portfolio of North Sea contracts consolidates our position as market leaders in fabric maintenance and industrial support services for the offshore industry.
“On the back of several contract wins we believe that the investment made in innovation, technology and our people over recent years is being recognised by the marketplace, whilst continuing to benefit our employees and customers. “We look forward to a long and successful partnership with Repsol Sinopec Resources UK. ”
Bill Dunnett, Managing Director of Repsol Sinopec Resources UK said: “These awards will drive greater innovation and competition in the supply chain, and improve accountability within our own business.
“Performance of our new contracts is a fundamental element of our ongoing transformation to an effective and sustainable operation – even in the current challenging market. This is a great opportunity for the local supply chain that will help us deliver long-term value to our shareholders, partners and employees.”
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